Blog
First United Welcomes Jason Schnopp as Director of Learning and Development
Kimberly Moyers, Managing Director of Strategic Engagement at First United Bank & Trust, is excited to welcome Jason Schnopp into the role of Director of Learning and Development. With more than 21 years of experience in the corporate banking industry, Jason...
Baby’s First Years: Making Sure Your New Business Starts Right
For years, friends and family have raved about your mouthwatering cakes, declaring you the best baker in town. After saving up, crafting an innovative business plan, and pouring your passion into every detail, you’re finally ready to open your bakery doors and delight customers with your creations. But how can you make sure that your dream becomes a sweet success?
First Figuring for Financial Fitness
Starting a new business is an exciting venture requiring careful planning and consideration. A financial calculator should be an essential tool in your toolkit. Before purchasing inventory, seeking a commercial loan, or hiring your first employee, it’s crucial to tally up the costs of launching your shop. This step will clarify whether your dream is attainable and help you avoid turning an ambitious idea into a fleeting fantasy.
Building a Better Business Budget
Starting a small business is an exciting yet challenging journey that requires careful planning and execution. For many owners, the process can feel overwhelming as they work to anticipate potential hurdles and lay a solid foundation for success.
Calculating Financial Fitness in Startup Situations
Starting a new business can be a thrilling yet daunting experience, particularly for first-time entrepreneurs. Beyond real estate costs, utility bills, renovation expenses, and inventory stacking, there’s a myriad of additional fees waiting to be tackled before you can finally welcome your first customers.
Recognize Workers’ Accomplishments Every Day
The success of your company isn’t achieved alone—it thrives because of the consistent effort, dedication, and dependable support provided by your staff every single day. Each team member plays a critical role in driving your business forward, contributing unique skills and perspectives that strengthen the organization as a whole.
Get a Home Business Off the Ground
Have you ever considered how many successful businesses begin in someone’s living room? They’re often driven by a handful of motivated individuals with brilliant ideas. This timeless concept still rings true today! You can turn your dreams into reality with a dash of determination and a solid understanding of what it takes to launch a new venture. The journey starts with you, so why not take the first step?
Don’t Let Work Ruin Time Away From the Office
Every small business owner has faced this dilemma—taking time off feels more like a fantasy than a reality. Instead of enjoying a well-deserved break, the phone keeps ringing, business banking tasks demand attention, and emails flood in, all while worries about the office swirl in the background.
How To Improve Working Relationships With Customers
Concerns about customer relationships can weigh heavily on small business owners striving to rise above the competition. It’s no easy feat to claim the title of best in town, but you can pave the way to success by concentrating on what your patrons truly need. Embracing this ongoing journey of understanding and meeting customer expectations might be the key to standing out in a crowded marketplace!
Surprise Your Customers With Your Service
Running a successful business requires a keen focus on customer satisfaction. This means being friendly and approachable, delivering exceptional services, and promptly resolving any issues that arise. However, with numerous companies striving to achieve the same level of customer care, you might wonder how to truly stand out in a crowded marketplace.
When Should You Fire an Employee?
Letting an employee go is one of the most challenging tasks a leader can face. As a small business owner or manager, you often have the responsibility for making tough decisions, and terminating someone’s employment is rarely easy or enjoyable. However, it’s an unavoidable aspect of running a business and ensuring its success.
Creating Publicity for Your Company
Success in business doesn’t happen in isolation; it requires visibility and recognition. For potential customers to choose your products or services, they first need to know you exist. This means actively finding and utilizing ways to promote your business and make it stand out in a competitive market.
Marissa Murphy to Spearhead Information Security and Disaster Recovery
Jason Rush, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at First United Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce the promotion of Marissa Murphy to Information Security and Disaster Recovery Officer. In this role, Marissa will be spearheading the corporation’s...
First United’s Phil Rodeheaver and Eric Goff receive CAFP designations
Jason Rush, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at First United Bank & Trust, is proud to announce that Phil Rodeheaver and Eric Goff recently passed the Certified Anti-Money Laundering and Fraud Professional exam and can now proudly display their...
Encourage Savings Young to Start Good Habits
The future of the American economy is not certain.
Julia Hershman Promoted to Wealth Advisor
Chris Sisler, Director of Wealth Management Sales at First United Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce the promotion of Julia Hershman to Wealth Advisor. Bringing a background of relationship development, teamwork, and sales skills, Julia will focus on wealth and...
How Holiday Stress Can Harm Financial Fitness
Everyone knows the feeling of waiting in long lines and shopping desperately for long hours for just the right gift.
Why You Should Ban Post-Work Communication
Picture this: it’s late at night, well after 5:00 p.m., and you suddenly realize—you forgot to pass on crucial information that your team needs for their projects, or perhaps there’s a financial plan that needs urgent tweaking from your accounting department. It could be that someone on your team neglected to submit a proposal for your approval.
3 Ways for Small Businesses to Give Back to the Community
Giving back can prove beneficial for small businesses, and there are a number of great ways to serve the community.
First United Promotes Laura Helmich
First United Promotes Laura Helmich to Director of Specialized Banking. Jason VanSickle, Managing Director of Financial Solutions, of First United Bank & Trust is pleased to announce that Laura Helmich has been appointed as Director of Specialized Banking. With...
Finture – Steps to Your Financial Future Launches
First United Bank & Trust is proud to announce the official launch of Finture – Steps to Your Financial Future, its enhanced financial education program, aiming to revolutionize financial literacy and support for local communities.
An Uncommon Story – Westwood Charm Boutique
Our Uncommon Stories Season 4 continues with Westwood Charm Boutique in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Thanks to the community’s support and some outside-the-box thinking, especially when it came to weathering the COVID-19 pandemic, the store demonstrates the importance, resilience, and strength found in local businesses.
Bulls & Bears Newsletter – Third Quarter 2024
Get the latest market insights with our Bulls & Bears Newsletter, provided by First United Bank & Trust Wealth Management Advisors.
First United Community Dreams Foundation Supports Landon’s Library
The First United Community Dreams Foundation is proud to provide $5,000 in funding to the WGW Community Youth Cup in support of Landon’s Library Trust Fund.
Jamie Alt appointed to Marketing Engagement Manager
Jennifer Petrie, the Director of Marketing & Communications, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jamie Alt as the new Marketing Engagement Manager.
Jennifer Petrie takes the reins as Director of Marketing & Communications
Kimberly Moyers, Managing Director of Strategic Engagement, is excited to announce the promotion of Jennifer Petrie as the new Director of Marketing & Communications.
AJ Savopoulos promoted to Assistant IT Manager
AJ Tasker, Managing Director of Information Technology at First United Bank & Trust, is thrilled to announce that AJ Savopoulos has been appointed as the Assistant IT Manager. In this new role, AJ will manage daily IT applications, support initiatives to enhance customer value, and oversee the Bank’s infrastructure.
Putting Together Sales Projections and What To Do When These Aren’t Met
Your small business’s financial plan should include a segment for projected revenues and sales. Forecasting revenue and growth can be tricky, and while estimates are never a sure thing, being able to present investors with thoughtful, solid predictions could go a long way toward securing funding, Entrepreneur magazine notes.
2024 First United Golf Tournament
First United Bank & Trust sponsored the 36th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Oakland Golf Club on Friday, July 12, 2024. This tournament has become a tradition and has raised over $700,000 for local charities. Participants enjoyed a challenging round of golf, and at the same time, raised needed funds to support numerous community projects. This year, the recipient of the tournament proceeds was the United Way of Garrett County, to which First United donated $ 47,500.
Amanda McKenzie takes the helm as our new Director of HR!
First United Bank & Trust is thrilled to announce the promotion of Amanda McKenzie to the position of Director of Human Resources. With 20 years of experience in both banking and human capital, Amanda brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.
Introducing Meagan Ward – Our Newest Addition to the Morgantown Team!
Jason Rush, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at First United Bank & Trust, is proud to introduce Meagan Ward as the newest member of the Company’s business and commercial banking division serving the greater Morgantown area.
Julie Peterson Appointed Chief Credit Officer at First United Bank & Trust
Carissa Rodeheaver, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairman of the Board for First United Bank & Trust is pleased to announce that Julie Peterson has been named as Chief Credit Officer.
College Budget Breakdown: The Cost of Education
According to the College Board, last year, the cost to attend in-state public colleges averaged $25,290 for the 2017-2018 year and private colleges averaged $50,900. Wondering what goes into those costs? It’s time to do the math on college and the means of getting there. Visit our blog to learn the 5 main categories to consider.
Getting Educated on Financial Tools and Banking Instruments
Efforts to increase financial literacy for all age groups is on the rise as more reports find that, across the board, people don’t know how banking tools work or how they might be beneficial.
An Uncommon Story – Trilogy Innovations
The fourth season begins by spotlighting Trilogy Innovations, a groundbreaking tech company located in West Virginia.
The Ins and Outs of Retirement
There comes a time in every working professional’s life when the idea of retirement becomes a reality, rather than just an abstract concept regarding permanent unemployment past the age of 65. For more people that consideration should come sooner in order to better plan for the future.
Preparing for Retirement – Do You Have a Financial Plan?
According to a recent study by the Society of Actuaries, few retirees have a financial plan despite becoming increasingly concerned about their retirement risk.
How Much Should Entrepreneurs Share With Their Spouses?
Community business owners like you dedicate an enormous amount of time to getting companies off the ground, and the commitment doesn’t end there.
Wise Moves for Young Families
Smart Financial Moves for Young Families Having children brings a new sense of responsibility. With a small person depending on you, it’s natural to want to make the best decisions for your growing family. Here are a few wise financial moves to help secure your...
First United Bank & Trust’s AJ Tasker Earns PMP Certification
Chief Operations Officer, Jason Rush, shares news that AJ Tasker has earned his Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.
Supporting Mylan Park with New Community Room
First United Bank & Trust is proud to announce its support of Mylan Park through the addition of the Community Room.
What Matters Most – Monthly Economic Update for November 2023 with Megan Kinsinger
Our monthly economic update report from the First United Wealth Management department. Megan Kinsinger, Portfolio Manager, joins us to discuss the negatives and positives happening in the market for November 2023.
First United Corporation elects Kevin Hessler to Board of Directors
The board of directors of First United Corporation has elected Kevin Hessler as its newest director, serving on Audit, Loan, and ALCO Committees.
Andrew Hardesty Awarded Top Honors
Andrew Hardesty, Commercial Relationship Manager, has successfully finished the Commercial Credit Training Course provided by Credit Training, Inc. Andrew not only achieved a rare 90+ designation on the final exam, but also attained the highest score in the May 2023 class.
What Matters Most – Navigating Beneficiary Updates with John Hetrick
Explore the essentials of beneficiary updates as John Hetrick demystifies the complexities, providing actionable insights for securing your financial legacy.
What Matters Most – Year End Planning with Kolby Abruzzino
In today’s episode of ‘What Matters Most,’ we’re joined by Kolby Abruzzino, CFP and Wealth Advisor at First United, to delve into the essential aspects of year-end financial planning, covering topics from cash flow and estate planning to insurance reviews and emergency funds.
What Matters Most – Monthly Economic Update for October 2023 with Brad Bolyard
Our monthly economic update report from the First United Wealth Management department. Brad Bolyard, Portfolio Manager, joins us to discuss the negatives and positives happening in the market for October 2023.
What Matters Most – Charitable Giving with Julia Hershman
In today’s episode of What Matters Most, we converse with Julia Hershman about the intricacies of charitable giving, exploring its many forms, benefits, and tax considerations, all against the backdrop of Wealth Management’s 60th anniversary.
An Uncommon Story – Fahrney Keedy
Our third season continues with a fascinating glimpse into the Fahrney Keedy Senior Living Community.
What Matters Most – Fraud Prevention with Eric Goff
Join fraud expert Eric Goff in this episode of ‘What Matters Most’ as he unravels the intricate web of fraud schemes and offers actionable steps for robust fraud prevention.